Be a child of courage and conquer obstacles
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Samchetsabam Ratankumar Singh
Time flies. Indeed, it does. For those waiting for the “right time,” “right circumstances,” “right team,” or “right resources,” here’s a reality check : time waits for no one. Once gone, it never returns. Good moments, bad moments, adversity, light, and dark are all part of life, and each fleeting experience offers a lesson. These lessons shape our thoughts, leave impressions in our minds, and stir emotions in our hearts. Yet, while everything moves forward, many of us wait, paralyzed by indecision and excuses.
In my career, I have witnessed a broad spectrum of professional journeys. There are those who start as mere graduates and rise to become Vice Presidents, Presidents, General Managers, Senior Managers, Managers, and Team Leads—driven by passion and determination. These individuals contribute significantly to their organi- zations, fostering immense growth and earning the rewards of international travel, luxurious accommodations, and generous incentives. Their journeys are marked by success, recognition, and opportunities beyond imagination.
On the other hand, I have also seen colleagues who struggle to crack interviews or, after securing a position, remain stuck in the same role for years without any meaningful growth—professionally or personally. Some individuals find success in switching careers and thrive, while others, despite their dissatisfaction, continue in roles they detest, unable to make a change.
What accounts for these stark differences ? The answer lies within each individual : their attitude, mindset, and, most importantly, how they choose to spend their time today. Your present actions, decisions, and perspective shape your future. It’s not just about skills or luck; it’s about the willingness to learn, adapt, and take charge of your destiny.
The most astonishing part is that we have the power to alter our lives simply by changing our atti- tudes. Too often, we blame our circumstances, past miseries, close relationships, fortune, or failures. Instead of taking control, we indulge in negativity and delay actions that are well within our power. This tendency has a name : procrastination. Procrastination is the act of delaying or postponing actions or decisions, often by waiting for the “perfect” moment, conditions, or resources. It thrives on indecision and excuses, keeping us from taking control of our lives and reaching our potential. Procrastination is the thief of time and the greatest obstacle to realizing our potential.
Why Procrastination is a Killer
Procrastination derails us from paths that could lead to greatness. It holds us back from achieving financial freedom, earning respect, building legacies, and reaching the heights of our dreams. Overcoming it is essential to shine in every aspect of life. Remember, procrastination is the silent killer of ambitions.
The Power of Visualization and Discipline
Fortunately, small, actionable steps can minimize procrastination and eventually eliminate it. Studies reveal that writing down your goals makes you 49% more likely to achieve them. Visualization is a powerful tool. Earl Nightingale aptly summarized the success mindset with these principles:
1. You become what you think.
2. Visualize what you want to become.
3. Have the courage to act with determination.
4. Save 10% of your earnings to instill financial discipline.
5. Remember, ideas are worthless unless acted upon.
You are the creator of your thoughts and the architect of your destiny. Accountability for your life—successes, failures, progress, and roadblocks—lies squarely with you. Understand your capacity and work towards your goals consistently. There is nothing you cannot achieve if you focus your energy and efforts.
Questions for Accountability
One of the most profound lessons I learned came from a course I took on LinkedIn. It emphasized accountability with these reflective questions:
1. Are we making progress or excuses?
2. Are we owning the issue or avoiding it?
3. Are we being brave or blaming others?
These questions, when answered honestly, can guide you toward self-improvement and productivity.
Role of an Accountability Partner in Beating Procrastination
Procrastination, laziness, poor time management, lack of focus, and not prioritizing or upskilling are common traits that hinder progress. These tendencies often lead people to depend on others for their basic necessities, ultimately limiting their potential. This is where the role of an accountability partner becomes crucial—someone who helps you stay on track, monitor habits, and push you toward your goals.
As researchers have observed, we are the sum total of the five people we spend the most time with. Their habits, thought processes, and attitudes significantly influence our own, as these traits are often communicable. For instance, consistent gym workouts for six months can combat obesity, and practicing meditation regularly can enhance focus and fuel goal achievement. Yet, many of us fail to sustain these routines on our own.
However, when close friends, mentors, or colleagues join us in these endeavors, the chances of success increase dramatically. Having someone who motivates you, shares the journey, and holds you accountable makes it easier to overcome procrastination and unlock your true potential.
Embrace Imperfection and Keep Moving
Beginnings are often challenging. Your first video project won’t be perfect. Your first article won’t win awards. Your first exam attempt may feel daunting. But accountability and perseverance can turn small wins into stepping stones toward larger successes. Procrastination will only hold you back, while time—once gone—is irreplaceable. All great leaders share a common understanding: the value of time. Nothing is more precious.
Overcoming Procrastination: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Understand Why You’re Procrastinating: Identify the root cause of your delay.
2. Ask Why You Must Get This Done: Clarify your purpose and motivation.
3. Recognize the Power of Starting: Often, the hardest part is beginning.
4. Take Action: Once started, your brain will naturally push you to continue.
5. Stay on Track: Maintain focus to ensure consistent progress.
By addressing these steps, you’ll transform into a better version of yourself, progressing steadily toward your goals and achieving undeniable success.
Final Thoughts
“We don’t have a problem focusing; we have a problem knowing where to focus.” Time is a priceless asset. Use it wisely to conquer procrastination, em- brace accountability, and work toward the life you envision. YOU CAN DO IT. Be fearless, take charge, and remember: the universe supports those who align their actions with purpose and determination. The writer is Associate Director–Marketing Operations, certified in 100+ skillsets, AIR Speaker, LinkedIn contributor, worked with 10+ reputed global firms
Time flies. Indeed, it does. For those waiting for the “right time,” “right circumstances,” “right team,” or “right resources,” here’s a reality check : time waits for no one. Once gone, it never returns. Good moments, bad moments, adversity, light, and dark are all part of life, and each fleeting experience offers a lesson. These lessons shape our thoughts, leave impressions in our minds, and stir emotions in our hearts. Yet, while everything moves forward, many of us wait, paralyzed by indecision and excuses.
In my career, I have witnessed a broad spectrum of professional journeys. There are those who start as mere graduates and rise to become Vice Presidents, Presidents, General Managers, Senior Managers, Managers, and Team Leads—driven by passion and determination. These individuals contribute significantly to their organi- zations, fostering immense growth and earning the rewards of international travel, luxurious accommodations, and generous incentives. Their journeys are marked by success, recognition, and opportunities beyond imagination.
On the other hand, I have also seen colleagues who struggle to crack interviews or, after securing a position, remain stuck in the same role for years without any meaningful growth—professionally or personally. Some individuals find success in switching careers and thrive, while others, despite their dissatisfaction, continue in roles they detest, unable to make a change.
What accounts for these stark differences ? The answer lies within each individual : their attitude, mindset, and, most importantly, how they choose to spend their time today. Your present actions, decisions, and perspective shape your future. It’s not just about skills or luck; it’s about the willingness to learn, adapt, and take charge of your destiny.
The most astonishing part is that we have the power to alter our lives simply by changing our atti- tudes. Too often, we blame our circumstances, past miseries, close relationships, fortune, or failures. Instead of taking control, we indulge in negativity and delay actions that are well within our power. This tendency has a name : procrastination. Procrastination is the act of delaying or postponing actions or decisions, often by waiting for the “perfect” moment, conditions, or resources. It thrives on indecision and excuses, keeping us from taking control of our lives and reaching our potential. Procrastination is the thief of time and the greatest obstacle to realizing our potential.
Why Procrastination is a Killer
Procrastination derails us from paths that could lead to greatness. It holds us back from achieving financial freedom, earning respect, building legacies, and reaching the heights of our dreams. Overcoming it is essential to shine in every aspect of life. Remember, procrastination is the silent killer of ambitions.
The Power of Visualization and Discipline
Fortunately, small, actionable steps can minimize procrastination and eventually eliminate it. Studies reveal that writing down your goals makes you 49% more likely to achieve them. Visualization is a powerful tool. Earl Nightingale aptly summarized the success mindset with these principles:
1. You become what you think.
2. Visualize what you want to become.
3. Have the courage to act with determination.
4. Save 10% of your earnings to instill financial discipline.
5. Remember, ideas are worthless unless acted upon.
You are the creator of your thoughts and the architect of your destiny. Accountability for your life—successes, failures, progress, and roadblocks—lies squarely with you. Understand your capacity and work towards your goals consistently. There is nothing you cannot achieve if you focus your energy and efforts.
Questions for Accountability
One of the most profound lessons I learned came from a course I took on LinkedIn. It emphasized accountability with these reflective questions:
1. Are we making progress or excuses?
2. Are we owning the issue or avoiding it?
3. Are we being brave or blaming others?
These questions, when answered honestly, can guide you toward self-improvement and productivity.
Role of an Accountability Partner in Beating Procrastination
Procrastination, laziness, poor time management, lack of focus, and not prioritizing or upskilling are common traits that hinder progress. These tendencies often lead people to depend on others for their basic necessities, ultimately limiting their potential. This is where the role of an accountability partner becomes crucial—someone who helps you stay on track, monitor habits, and push you toward your goals.
As researchers have observed, we are the sum total of the five people we spend the most time with. Their habits, thought processes, and attitudes significantly influence our own, as these traits are often communicable. For instance, consistent gym workouts for six months can combat obesity, and practicing meditation regularly can enhance focus and fuel goal achievement. Yet, many of us fail to sustain these routines on our own.
However, when close friends, mentors, or colleagues join us in these endeavors, the chances of success increase dramatically. Having someone who motivates you, shares the journey, and holds you accountable makes it easier to overcome procrastination and unlock your true potential.
Embrace Imperfection and Keep Moving
Beginnings are often challenging. Your first video project won’t be perfect. Your first article won’t win awards. Your first exam attempt may feel daunting. But accountability and perseverance can turn small wins into stepping stones toward larger successes. Procrastination will only hold you back, while time—once gone—is irreplaceable. All great leaders share a common understanding: the value of time. Nothing is more precious.
Overcoming Procrastination: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Understand Why You’re Procrastinating: Identify the root cause of your delay.
2. Ask Why You Must Get This Done: Clarify your purpose and motivation.
3. Recognize the Power of Starting: Often, the hardest part is beginning.
4. Take Action: Once started, your brain will naturally push you to continue.
5. Stay on Track: Maintain focus to ensure consistent progress.
By addressing these steps, you’ll transform into a better version of yourself, progressing steadily toward your goals and achieving undeniable success.
Final Thoughts
“We don’t have a problem focusing; we have a problem knowing where to focus.” Time is a priceless asset. Use it wisely to conquer procrastination, em- brace accountability, and work toward the life you envision. YOU CAN DO IT. Be fearless, take charge, and remember: the universe supports those who align their actions with purpose and determination. The writer is Associate Director–Marketing Operations, certified in 100+ skillsets, AIR Speaker, LinkedIn contributor, worked with 10+ reputed global firms